In Maryland, local residents have the right to enforce their wishes in terms of their health care. They can determine who will help them when they become incapacitated. They can also define their decisions about conditions that could emerge later in life. The following is a review of the terms of living wills in Hagerstown, MD.
Personal Wishes During Emergencies
All individuals have the right to create a living will to identify their decisions when they cannot provide the information to a doctor. The living will states what the doctors should do if the individual is facing life-threatening circumstances. The will defines whether or not the individual wants to be resuscitated or wants any extraordinary measures performed by the medical staff.
A Health Care Proxy
A health care proxy is an individual who makes medical decisions for incapacitated patients. The assignment is established by the patient while they are still lucid. If they are diagnosed with a condition that could affect their mental state, the individual must take measures to ensure that their health care wishes are followed. The health care proxy can override some decisions if they have a difference of opinion.
Health Care Plans
Health care plans are created to direct the health care proxy. This defines what doctor will take care of the individual as defined by their plan. It also presents a power of attorney for an individual to manage their assets and expenses to prevent issues like the unethical use of these assets.
The Individual’s Last Wishes
These doctors can also identify the patient’s last wishes. For example, if they die as a result of their condition, the will directs the hospital. It defines what funeral home will manage these requirements and prepare their body. They can also include funeral-based decisions in these documents as well.
In Maryland, local residents can create a full plan to address their health care requirements. These requirements could include care and treatment for chronic conditions. They can also identify a health care proxy to manage these needs. A living will defines their wishes if they face life-threatening circumstances. Local residents who want to create living wills in Hagerstown, MD should contact Bonnie A. Winders today.